\u201cStar Wars\u201d is more than a science fiction-adventure film series \u2014 it\u2019s a cultural\u00a0 phenomenon. In addition to the compelling characters, exciting action, and groundbreaking special effects, the movies also offer some classic wisdom. In honor of Star Wars Day on May 4 (\u201cMay the fourth be with you\u201d), I want to share some of the lessons the series has taught me.<\/p>\n
Unlike most people my age, I didn\u2019t see the first \u201cStar Wars\u201d film in theaters. I wasn\u2019t interested, I was too busy studying. But cultural osmosis finally got to me, and after about 10 years, I finally saw the \u201cretroactively\u201d titled 1977 movie \u201cA New Hope.\u201d It was love at first watch!<\/p>\n
I was hooked when Luke Skywalker found the video of Princess Leia pleading, \u201cHelp me, Obi-Wan Kenobi.\u201d Along with the death of the aunt and uncle who raised him, that moment sets him on the path for mentorship with Obi-Wan, learning about \u201cthe Force,\u201d and becoming the hero he was meant to be. While none of us have ever saved the galaxy from an evil empire, most have faced difficult situations where we were forced to choose a path, step outside our comfort zone, and grow into stronger and wiser people.<\/p>\n
Luke\u2019s quest is an example of \u201cthe hero\u2019s journey,\u201d and creators have used it for centuries. In fact, Joseph Campbell\u2019s book about the hero\u2019s journey, \u201cThe Hero With a Thousand Faces,\u201d inspired \u201cStar Wars.\u201d The idea of a hero facing a challenge, learning new skills, ultimately winning a decisive victory, and returning home with exceptional powers that can help his community has resonated with us for millennia.<\/p>\n
The concept of the Force also evokes something significant. Luke must learn to harness this powerful energy to win his battle. The Force may be fictional, but the idea is similar to the one outlined in a book I recently re-read called \u201cMindset: The New Psychology of Success\u201d by Carol Dweck. Dweck introduced the world to a \u201cgrowth mindset,\u201d which has helped many people break out of a rut and improve their lives.<\/p>\n
Many of us think of our personality as set in stone; we are who we are. Dweck challenges that thinking and argues that just as you can improve your intelligence with study or physical fitness with exercise, you can develop new traits through perseverance and drive. She argues that our accomplishments are as much about the journey as the ultimate result.<\/p>\n
That same message is at the heart of \u201cA New Hope.\u201d Luke doesn\u2019t learn the way of the Jedi through natural ability but through hard work. With belief in yourself, hope for the future, and a determination to keep going, we can all grab hold of the growth mindset and be more successful.<\/p>\n
Though it took me some time to get hooked, \u201cStar Wars\u201d is now a family obsession. My kids are fans and even dressed up as movie characters for Halloween one year. Meanwhile, my cousin, Luke, once met Mark Hamill and got his autograph. Hamill signed it, \u201cFrom one Luke to another.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cStar Wars\u201d remains so popular for a reason, and I believe its message of hope is a primary factor. We really can do anything if we set our minds to it. May the Force be with you!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
\u201cStar Wars\u201d is more than a science fiction-adventure film series \u2014 it\u2019s a cultural\u00a0 phenomenon. In addition to the compelling characters, exciting action, and groundbreaking special effects, the movies also offer some classic wisdom. In honor of Star Wars Day … Continue reading